Trademark Infringement?

[slbd]

I've been killing time lately making a website for a hobby of mine. I collect a specific brand of folding knives. The site that I am making has a domain name that contains the brand name: www.”brand name”knifecollectors.com. It is mostly for informational purposes, but I plan on selling some knives. I've been thinking that using that domain may infringe on a trademark or copyright. Whatcha think?

Also…… is it legal to publish a description of a company’s product? For instance Company A produced the ABC knife from 1940-1963. It measures 3”…has bone handles … etc.

Thanks in advance for any replies

[rogerd]

The "brand name" company may well object to your use of its name in your domain name. Or, they may see you as a harmless fan who is helping build their reputation. I'd check the company's web site for starters, and probably contact them for permission before you invest a lot of time or money. Companies react very differently to this issue, and some are quite litigious. Even if they think you are harmless, many companies will still lower the boom on you to vigorously defend their trademarks and prevent others from using the name for less noble purposes.

Information about the products should be fine if you don't lift it verbatim or otherwise infringe someone's copyright.

Welcome to WebmasterWorld, slbd!